CVE-2017-9040: Null Pointer Dereference

Published May 18, 2017
·
Updated

GNU Binutils 2017-04-03 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (NULL pointer dereference and application crash), related to the processmipsspecific function in readelf.c, via a crafted ELF file that triggers a large memory-allocation attempt.

Affected Software

2 affected componentsFixes available
GNU binutils=2.28
debian/binutils
2.35.2-22.40-22.44-3

Event History

May 18, 2017
CVE Published
via MITRE·01:00 AM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·01:00 AM
Description
Jan 11, 2024
Data Sourced
via Launchpad·10:41 PM
Description
Sep 16, 2024
Data Sourced
via Ubuntu·01:51 AM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the vulnerability ID for this security issue?

The vulnerability ID for this security issue is CVE-2017-9040.

2

What is the severity of CVE-2017-9040?

The severity of CVE-2017-9040 is a denial of service (DoS) vulnerability.

3

Which software is affected by CVE-2017-9040?

GNU Binutils versions 2.26.1-1ubuntu1~16.04.8 and later, 2.29-1, 2.31.1-16, 2.35.2-2, 2.40-2, and 2.41-5 are affected by CVE-2017-9040.

4

How can a remote attacker exploit CVE-2017-9040?

A remote attacker can exploit CVE-2017-9040 by sending a crafted ELF file that triggers a large memory-allocation attempt, causing a NULL pointer dereference and application crash.

5

How can I fix CVE-2017-9040?

To fix CVE-2017-9040, you should update your GNU Binutils installation to a version that includes the provided security patches.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203